"I think that being mindful, having perseverance, and above all, being kind to all, which is not always easy to do, are important keys to success."

"It's difficult to express the joy of true discovery–learning something that no one else knows."

Matt Landis (10/18/18)
Human Engineering Research Laboratories
Main area of study: Computer engineering

"I can see the impact of thoughtful, well-designed technologies on disabled people...I can see directly how life-changing these innovations can be, and that everything we do can potentially increase a person's freedom."

"Without the right data, we weren't going to succeed. So I set out to be the Army's suicide expert."

"I've seen that VA researchers, and in particular those in VA research centers, are really collaborative and supportive. They want to mentor junior researchers."

Dr. Kiersten Downs (03/07/18)
James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital
Main area of study: Community reintegration

"As I set out on a path to become a VA researcher, I feverishly consumed the work of VA anthropologists like Erin Finley, Sarah Ono, and Ann Cheney. These incredible women made me realize that there is a place for the kind of work I want to do in VA."

"I enjoyed and continue to enjoy working with Veterans. They are the most deserving group of patients we can serve."

"My experience in the military, particularly at a time when it was unpopular and when no one was saying 'thank you for your service' after we came home, helps me bond with many Veterans disaffected by wars and society."

"After my injury, I had to plot a new course in life. I don't think that it matters anymore. I've found my calling...."

"Whether it is simply having the shared experience of shining and wearing combat boots, carrying a rucksack, eating a ready-to-eat meal, or having seen the acute effects of an IED...all of these experiences provide familiarity to patients and can be key to establishing rapport."